THE Artscape Theatre Centre is playing host to Cape Town Opera (CTO’s) annual open day where the public can enjoy a behind-the scenes tour of the Artscape complex, as well as learning some stage ‘secrets’. The next two weeks’ programme includes two hilarious comedy productions, dance, plays and an open-air ballet performance.

The Taming of the Shrew – January 15 to February 19, 2011 (2,5 hrs)

AMIDST raving media reviews, The Taming of the Shrew, Shakespeare’s most popular comedy is drawing to a close at the Maynardville Open-Air Theatre. Through this comic and at times brutal chaos, two of Shakespeare’s most celebrated lovers encounter a rugged path to true love. An Italian Circus is coming to Maynardville! Join us and revel in this fantastique story. Tickets range from R100 to R150 at the Maynardville Open-Air Theatre.

MEDIA critics praise Cape Town City Ballet transferral of its dance production of the ageless appeal of Cole Porter’s to Maynardville. The company brings to life the melodies and characters that are misted over in the nostalgia of the 1940’s and 1950’s, when Porter was the master of the musicals.

THIS acclaimed production of Shakespeare’s Richard III ends this week. History is filled with despotic leaders who have risen to power and then succumbed to megalomania, paranoia and corruption. The exploration of this theme and the examination of why power corrupts is particularly pertinent to South Africa today. Tickets cost R100, at the Arena.

THOSE Indian Guys is a wacky hit comedy that takes you on a journey from the cane fields to the Karma Sutra. It is a two-hander sketch comedy adventure about every Indian you have ever or never met. First time in Cape Town this comedy sell-out has had Johannesburg, Durban and Port Elizabeth stomping with laughter. Starring Sans Moonsamy & Kaseran Pillay.

THE Butler is back! Justin Wilkinson’s murder-mystery comedy which enjoyed multiple sell-out shows at the National Arts Festival will once again keep audiences guessing until the final reveal! Set against the backdrop of an impending wedding, the story ultimately asks the question: Just how well does the groom really know the family he’s marrying into?

CAPE Town Opera opens its doors to the public with a rolling programme of short sessions, including tips on how to stage fight, sing and act, set and lighting design and other behind the-scenes ‘secrets’. Come join in the fun and have your picture taken in a stage costume, tour the Artscape facilities, as well as view an orchestral rehearsal of Carmen. Entrance is free at various Artscape Venues.

A BEAUTIFUL ballet, set in the future, taking an awe-inspiring retrospection at the world and the way it used to be. A performance by the Kit Davies School of Ballet, filled with celebration, hope, joy and spirit.

THIS schools’ setwork by acclaimed playwrights Mbongeni Ngema, Percy Mthwa and Barney Simon, explores the Second Coming of Morena the Saviour and what would have happened had he arrived in apartheid South Africa. Tickets cost R40, at the Arena.

*Information correct at the time of issue. Dates, times and venues may change. Artscape may not be held liable for any discrepancies that may occur at short notice.

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